Spinal Decompression is a treatment that decreases the pressure on the discs of the spine by using computer controlled force to gently distract the vertebra around the affected disc(s).

When the bones of the spine are decompressed, there is a vacuum effect created between them, pulling any bulging or herniated material back into the disc. Nutrients and water are also pulled in, supporting proper disc healing. Discs do not have blood supply in adults so the vacuum effect is critical to the healing process. Increasing the space between the vertebrae can also alleviate pinched nerves and decrease irritation in the facet joints of the spine. The computer controls the force used to distract the spinal segment(s) and it cycles between periods of gentle pulling and periods of rest. This prevents any muscle guarding that can result from high force distraction or sustained periods of distraction.

Conditions such as disc bulges, disc herniations, thinning discs, pinched nerves, pain traveling to the arms or legs (sciatica), spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), and facet syndrome (irritation of spinal joints) respond very well to Spinal Decompression. There are conditions that would not benefit so a proper examination will determine if you are a candidate for Spinal Decompression.

Absolutely. Examination and a thorough case history will help determine if Spinal Decompression can help but many patients who were looking at surgery have had tremendous results with this treatment. Not everyone will be a candidate so it is critical that we perform a detailed exam, review your case history and look at any X-Rays or MRIs that you may have. If you are considering surgery, talk to us first to see if this can help.